Renewing commitment to service, heritage and sustainable tourism
Spring has arrived and, with it, nature awakens – shaking off the dullness of winter as flowers bloom and jacarandas burst into colour, symbolising new beginnings.
This is a reminder that growth begins with reflection and adaptation. For those of us entrusted with serving in government, this season offers a powerful metaphor: just as nature refreshes itself, so too must we, as public servants, take time to recharge, refocus and recommit to the work of building a better South Africa.
Like the changing seasons, our roles require adaptability, fresh thinking and renewed energy. This is how we remain true to government’s commitment to serve the people of South Africa.
September brings together three significant observances in our national calendar. This includes heightened implementation of the 2025 to 2026 government-wide Integrated Public Service Month (IPSM) programme to advance professionalism under the theme: “Professionalising the Public Service to Build Trust and Restore Confidence in Government: A Nation that Works for All”. In addition, Heritage Month is being commemorated under the theme: “Reimagine our Heritage Institutions for a New Era” and Tourism Month is being held under the theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”. Each of these are deeply embedded in contributing towards the Government of National Unity’s five-year programme of Action – the Medium term Development Plan of 2924 – 2029.
The IPSM is anchored on five strategic pillars that include the visibility of the executive in communities, responsiveness, professionalism and ethical conduct of public servants, trust and citizen participation. Public Service Month is a time to reflect on the values that underpin our democracy: accountability, responsiveness and ethical leadership, in reinforcing government’s commitment to deliver effective, people-centred services.
At the heart of this commitment are the Batho Pele principles, which continue to guide how public services should be delivered. Through initiatives such as frontline service delivery monitoring, citizen engagement programmes and service delivery improvement plans, we should move beyond compliance and embrace innovation. The goal is clear: to build a public service that is professional, capable and trusted by the people it serves.
As decision-makers, we are called to lead by example – fostering a culture of excellence, investing in the growth and development of our teams and ensuring that every interaction with the public reflects the values of dignity, respect and efficiency. Let us turn this month into a catalyst for action by reviewing our organisations’ service standards, engaging with communities and identifying areas where transformation is needed the most.
Heritage Month, also celebrated in September, invites us to reflect on our shared history and celebrate the rich cultural diversity that defines our nation. The country’s heritage landscape is evolving in response to a changing world shaped by digital transformation, globalisation, youth activism and the urgent need for inclusive economic development. While heritage has traditionally been linked to preservation, commemoration and identity, there is growing recognition of its potential to drive innovation, creativity and community-led development.
This year’s celebration signals a strategic shift – from simply remembering the past to leveraging heritage as a foundation for building a dynamic, socially responsive, technologically innovative and economically inclusive future.
In a country still confronting legacies of division, heritage offers a bridge to understanding and respecting out diversity and our collective purpose of working together to build a better South Africa. Through the preservation and celebration of our cultural assets, we foster pride, belonging and a sense of shared destiny.
Let us support local heritage initiatives, partner with cultural institutions and create platforms for intergenerational dialogue. In this edition, we feature one of South Africa’s cultural icons, Dr Ester Mahlangu, whose work is inspired by heritage, in a modern context, that has raised the country’s flag in the global village.
Tourism Month highlights the sector’s role in driving inclusive economic growth and cultural exchange. It reflects on government’s commitment to building a tourism industry that is resilient, inclusive and environmentally responsible.
The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan outlines key interventions to reignite demand, protect supply and promote domestic travel. Central to this strategy is the promotion of lesser-known destinations and community-based tourism initiatives, ensuring that tourism benefits reach rural and previously disadvantaged areas. One of our features in this edition highlights how Agritourism is changing rural experiences and its potential to grow the economy and empower rural communities.
Let us, through our departments, organisations and municipalities, collaborate with local tourism operators, invest in infrastructure that supports tourism and promote South Africa’s hidden gems.
As the season shifts, may we, as public servants, take inspiration from nature’s agility to adapt and flourish. This is a chance for us to build on what we know and to embrace new possibilities, keeping in mind that transformation is not only necessary but natural.
Whether we are improving service delivery, preserving heritage or promoting sustainable tourism, our leadership must be rooted in compassion, creativity and a deep commitment to the people of South Africa.
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